Tenants residing in Blackpool's selective licensing zones are being encouraged to verify that their landlords hold the necessary licences for their properties. The call comes as Blackpool Council continues its drive to ensure compliance within these designated areas, with more than half of the approximately 9,000 private rented sector (PRS) homes in the latest selective licensing zone now officially registered.
Selective licensing schemes are implemented by local authorities in areas where there is evidence of low housing demand, anti-social behaviour, or poor property conditions within the private rented sector. The aim is to improve the management of rental properties, enhance living standards for tenants, and ensure landlords meet specific criteria, including conducting proper background checks and maintaining properties to a certain standard. For tenants, this means greater protection and a clearer pathway to address issues with their accommodation.
Blackpool Council maintains a public register where tenants can easily check if their property, or a property they are considering renting, is licensed. Failure to obtain a licence when required can lead to significant penalties for landlords, including unlimited fines, prosecution, and a criminal record. Furthermore, tenants living in an unlicensed property may be eligible to apply for a Rent Repayment Order, which could see them reclaim up to 12 months' worth of rent paid during the period the property was unlicensed.
The current push in Blackpool highlights the ongoing efforts by local authorities across the UK to regulate the private rented sector more effectively. While specific data on the overall number of selective licensing schemes nationwide is complex due to their localised nature, many councils have adopted similar programmes to tackle issues related to housing quality and landlord accountability. The success of these schemes often relies on both robust enforcement by councils and awareness among tenants regarding their rights and responsibilities.
For existing tenants, taking a few minutes to check the council's register could provide peace of mind and, in some cases, uncover non-compliance that might entitle them to redress. For prospective tenants, it offers an additional layer of due diligence when searching for a new home, helping them to avoid properties managed by landlords who may not meet legal requirements.
Source: Property118